Pet Jewelry: Is Your Pet TOO Pampered?

How pampered is your pooch? Does your dog have his or her own wardrobe? Perhaps his or her own house? (No joke; there are companies that will build miniature houses for your canine companions).

Recently, a coworker adopted a puppy and, the day after, was showing everyone the gorgeous pearl necklace/collar he’d ordered for her. Being another proud pup owner, I was a little amused. Then again, my dog has eaten two collars, three harnesses, and a handful of leashes. I would never spend more than $10 – $15 on anything that would go within five feet of my dog (unless I want her to eat it).

What do you think? Would you buy jewelry for your dog? Spend $88 on a matching collar/bracelet set? Or do you think some pet pampering just goes a bit too far?

White Gold vs. Yellow Gold: The Showdown

Have you ever wondered if there are any differences between white and yellow gold (aside from the obvious)? For most, the choice between yellow gold and white gold is simply personal preference. For others, metal allergies can play an important role in deciding which one to buy. Below are just a few key facts to consider when considering white vs. yellow gold.



White Gold

• This silvery looking alloy consists of gold and one or more other white metals (nickel, manganese, or palladium). 
• Eighteen-carat white gold might contain 17.3% nickel, 5.5% zinc, and 2.2% copper.  
• Alloys typically used in jewelry making are gold-palladium-silver and gold-nickel-copper-zinc (palladium and nickel are the primary bleaching agents).

 
Yellow Gold 

• Yellow gold is also alloyed with base metals to alter hardness and other properties  (primarily copper). 
• The lower the caratage, the higher percentage of copper or other base metals. 
• Eighteen-carat yellow gold contains about 25% copper.

Regardless of the color, both yellow and white gold are measured by karats for purity.

Which do you prefer?